Ugandan Olympian Benjamin Kiplagat's Murderers Sentenced to 35 Years

Justice Reuben Nyakundi of Kenya sentenced Peter Ushuru Khalumi and David Ekai Lokere to 35 years for the murder of Ugandan Olympian Benjamin Kiplagat, who was killed on New Year’s Eve. The verdict highlights ongoing concerns over athlete safety in the region.

A Kenyan court has sentenced two men to 35 years in prison for the murder of Ugandan Olympian Benjamin Kiplagat, who was fatally stabbed on New Year’s Eve in Eldoret, an area renowned for athletic training. The court's decision was delivered by Justice Reuben Nyakundi, who described the men's actions as cruel and premeditated.

The judge revealed that CCTV footage clearly indicated that Peter Ushuru Khalumi and David Ekai Lokere had stalked Kiplagat before brutally attacking him in his vehicle. This incident has alarmed many in the athletic community, especially considering the increasing number of similar violent crimes against prominent athletes in Kenya.

During the sentencing, Kiplagat's mother made an emotional plea for life sentences, expressing her grief over the loss of her son, who had achieved significant success in his athletic career despite humble beginnings. She emphasized that the murderers did not steal from him, suggesting their intent was solely to kill. Despite the court’s decision not to grant her request, she and her family expressed satisfaction with the outcome, feeling justice had been served.

Kiplagat, who was 34 at the time of his death, reached the finals of the 3,000m steeplechase at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and has the record for Uganda in that event. This murder has reignited discussions around the safety and well-being of athletes in the region, raising awareness about the need for protection against such acts of violence.